Vocation de Saint Matthew 17th-18th century

Editor: This is "Vocation de Saint Matthew" by Bernard Picart. It's a print from the late 17th or early 18th century, currently at the Harvard Art Museums. The composition is quite dynamic. What do you see in this piece from a formalist perspective? Curator: The work's strength lies in its manipulation of line and form. Observe how the artist uses hatching and cross-hatching to create depth and shadow, particularly in the drapery. The arrangement of figures creates a clear focal point, guiding the viewer's eye. How does the overall structure impact your understanding? Editor: It creates a sense of movement and drama, drawing my attention to the interaction between the figures. The lines do seem to give it a sense of heightened intensity. Curator: Precisely. And it is through this orchestration of visual elements that Picart constructs meaning. Editor: Thanks, I see the print now with a new perspective. Curator: It was my pleasure.